MANCHESTER United star Dwight Yorke is reported to be under investigation by Irish police after an alleged assault at a VIP party at an Irish racecourse.

It is understood Yorke was thrown out of the hospitality tent at the course by security guards and then escorted from the track by the police.

The 31-year-old had been enjoying the champagne and sandwiches during the Budweiser Irish Derby at the famous Curragh track in County Kildare when the alleged incident happened at around 6pm yesterday.

It is alleged that Jason Rock, the son of well-known Irish entertainer Dickie Rock, had to intervene after a woman complained of a "minor assault".

"Yorke was wearing a silly hat and taking pictures of people," one guest said. "He was all over the place. He was taking their picture when people didn't want him to," said another.

There were around 1,000 guests at the event, with a host of celebrities, including former Boyzone stars Keith Duffy and Stephen Gately and Irish Deputy Premier Mary Harney.

A spokesman for the Irish police, the Garda, said claims of an assault were being investigated by officers at Newbridge.

"They are all just allegations at the moment, but we are looking into them," he added.

He confirmed the nature of the alleged assault was not sexual. A United spokesman confirmed that the player was not arrested.